Petit Manseng

Petit Manseng is a white grape variety that is primarily grown in the Jurançon region of southwestern France. It is a late-ripening grape that produces small, thick-skinned berries that are high in sugar and acidity. Petit Manseng is known for its ability to produce wines with a high level of sweetness, but also with a refreshing acidity that balances the sweetness.

Petit Manseng is a versatile grape that can be used to produce a range of wines, from dry to sweet. In the Jurançon region, it is primarily used to produce sweet wines, which are often labeled as Jurançon or Jurançon Sec. These wines are typically made by allowing the grapes to hang on the vine until they are very ripe, which concentrates the sugar and flavor in the berries. The grapes are then harvested and pressed, and the juice is fermented slowly to preserve the natural sweetness of the grapes.

There are also dry versions of Petit Manseng, which are becoming increasingly popular. These wines are made by harvesting the grapes earlier, when they are still high in acidity and lower in sugar. The resulting wines are crisp and refreshing, with flavors of citrus and tropical fruit.

Petit Manseng is also grown in other parts of the world, including the United States, Australia, and South Africa. In the United States, it is primarily grown in Virginia, where it is used to produce both dry and sweet wines. In Australia, it is often blended with other white grape varieties to produce complex, flavorful wines.

One of the most famous brands of Petit Manseng is Château Jolys, which is located in the Jurançon region of France. Château Jolys produces a range of wines, including dry and sweet versions of Jurançon. Their sweet wines are made from 100% Petit Manseng grapes, and are known for their rich, complex flavors and aromas of honey, apricot, and citrus.

Another famous brand of Petit Manseng is Horton Vineyards, which is located in Virginia. Horton Vineyards produces a dry Petit Manseng that is crisp and refreshing, with flavors of grapefruit and tropical fruit. They also produce a sweet Petit Manseng that is rich and complex, with flavors of honey and apricot.

Overall, Petit Manseng is a versatile grape that can produce a range of wines, from dry to sweet. It is known for its high level of acidity, which balances the sweetness in the wine. Petit Manseng is a great choice for those who enjoy sweet wines, but also for those who prefer dry wines with a crisp, refreshing acidity.